Escort rider cleared of causing death by careless driving

A Met escort rider has been cleared of causing death by careless driving while on duty with the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command.

A jury at the Old Bailey found PC Christopher Harrison, 68, not guilty in relation to the death of Helen Holland, 81.

PC Harrison was involved in a collision with Mrs Holland while riding a police motorcycle in Earl's Court on 10 May, 2023. Officers and paramedics administered first aid at the scene. Mrs Holland was taken to hospital with serious injuries, where she died two weeks later.

Commander Adam Slonecki, Specialist Operations, said: “Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Mrs Holland’s family, and we are deeply sorry for their loss in these circumstances.

"While nothing we can say or do can make up for this loss, we have worked to safeguard against future tragedies regardless of today’s outcome.

“Escort riders now have bullhorns fitted to their motorcycles to ensure public safety. They use these in addition to their whistles to warn people they are approaching.

“While it is crucial police actions are scrutinised, PC Harrison has waited two-and-a-half years for today’s outcome, while Mrs Holland’s family have had to grieve through a protracted period of uncertainty.

“We have been lobbying for quicker and fairer accountability processes to lessen the impact on all involved. We will now consider any misconduct matters for PC Harrison as soon as possible.”

Following the collision, the matter was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, who began a criminal and misconduct investigation. A file was passed to the Crown Prosecution Service, who made the decision to charge.